Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty

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November 23, 2018

The tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure is a toning operation that helps a person restore their figure. The objective of the abdominoplasty procedure is to repair damaged abdominal muscle tissue while simultaneously removing the excess fat and skin that haunts patients after child-bearing or major weight loss. The finished result of the surgery produces a sleeker and nicely toned abdominal section that looks healthy and natural.

When is the Tummy Tuck Procedure Advisable?

The tummy tuck is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures performed today. Anyone who struggles to improve the shape of their abdominal section may qualify for a tummy tuck. It is frequently used as a triple solution for repairing damaged muscles, tightening saggy skin, and removing ugly scars left behind after C-section births. If suggested by our specialist English-speaking surgeon, you may opt for liposuction for the removal of stubborn fat at the same time. However, for patients who are obese and still retain significant volumes of fat around the abdomen, the best practice is to first remove the excess fat through liposuction before scheduling for a final tummy tuck to add the finishing touches.

Overview of the Tummy Tuck Procedure

Consultation – the first step of the tummy tuck procedure is a consultation to determine what your expectations may be, and whether it is advisable to first undergo liposuction, or not. Our specialist will discuss your medical history and treatment options with you before proceeding. You will be provided with a clear vision of the anticipated outcome as a blueprint for our surgeon to meet your expectations.

The specialist will then provide you with detailed information on how to prepare for your tummy tuck procedure and how to speed up recovery post-surgery. In general, patients should cease smoking for at least 3-weeks before and 3-weeks after surgery. Of course, stopping altogether is much better and should be a priority anyway! The patient must also avoid herbal supplements, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other medications that can thin blood or inhibit clotting.

Treatment – You may choose to have your tummy tuck surgery under general anesthesia or elect for the additional benefit of sedation administered by IV drip. Once you are properly anesthetized, the specialist will carefully sculpt a precise horizontal incision between your belly button and pubic hairline. The shape and size of this incision is relative to the amount of excess flesh you need to have removed. A full tummy tuck incision typically flows from hip to hip with a downward curvature to blend into the contours of the body.

After the incision is made, the weakened and split muscles of the abdominal fascia wall can be repaired with sutures. An additional incision around the navel may be needed to correct sagging skin of the upper abdomen. At this phase, liposuction may be used to help smooth the transitions and sculpt away areas of excess fat. Then, the skin is pulled tight towards the first incision and clipped into place. This allows the specialist to suture the opening and trim the excess skin. The final step is to reposition the navel by opening the pulled-down skin and suturing it into a new position.

Recovery – The reason why it is almost impossible for others to know that you had the surgery boils down to micro-stitching and using the best methods to prevent scarring. This is the secret of plastic surgery that yields impressive results and faster healing after removing and manipulating any tissue. The fine scars are hidden under the bikini line and usually flatten out smoothly, fading away in 9-12 months.

The Next Step

If a tummy tuck is something you may be interested in, please contact us to ask any questions you may have, or set up a consultation appointment with our specialist.